Sometimes, cats adopt people. If you have a stray cat that you would like to care for, there are simple steps to make him feel at home. The amount of time he takes to warm up to you will depend on how much contact he's had with people.
Step 1
Let the cat take the lead. Depending on what the cat has been through, he may be skittish around people. Don’t try to pet or pick up a stray who hasn’t demonstrated a willingness to be touched. Cats will brush up against you if they want more attention
Step 2
Feed the cat twice a day. The fastest way to a cat’s heart is through his stomach. The person who feeds the cat is typically the first person a cat will connect with. By feeding on a regular schedule and removing the uneaten food, you will encourage the cat to come back and avoid attracting other wildlife.
Step 3
Keep a bowl of fresh water available to the cat at all times. If the cat has everything it needs at your home, he will start to relax.
Step 4
Give the cat somewhere comfortable to sleep. Put together a simple bed using a cardboard box lined with towels or an old blanket. Just make sure that the linens are freshly washed, because the scent of other animals may scare off the stray cat.
Step 5
Place the bed in a cozy, warm area, particularly if it is the winter. If the cat is young, you may even want to leave a heating pad in the area for him to snuggle with. A covered outdoor area or part of a garage or shed that he can access is preferable.
Step 6
Slowly introduce the scents of other people and animals from your family. Do this by leaving blankets that the animals sleep on or clothes that have been warm in the stray cat’s area. This will allow the cat to get used to the scent without becoming overwhelmed.
